Special Events Information for Religious Organizations, Service Clubs or Fraternal Organizations

Under the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA), all special event organizers, including religious organizations, service clubs and fraternal organizations, are required to notify public health units if they plan to serve food to the public.

Patrons must be notified in writing whether the premises and/or food served has been inspected. A sign must be posted in a conspicuous place at the entrance to the premises where the meal is served. (See example of a sign).

Religious Organizations, Service Clubs and Fraternal Organizations: Definitions and Examples

1. RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION:

Defined as an organization, other than a registered charity, of which a congregation is a constituent part, that adheres to beliefs, evidenced by the religious and philosophical tenets of the organization, that include a belief in the existence of a supreme being. (Source: Income Tax Act)

2. SERVICE CLUB:

Defined as an organization dedicated to the growth and general welfare of its members and the community. (Source: Webster's Dictionary)

Examples of service clubs include but are not limited to:

Optimist Club

Rotary Club

Royal Canadian Legion

Boy Scouts/Girl Guides

Community Sports Association

Lions Club

3. FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION:

Interpreted as being any organized body of men or women or both who are banded together, not for financial profit, but for mutual help, and to promote moral, intellectual or social benefits among members. (Source: Union Club of BC v. Saanich (1993) 85 BCLR (2d) 167 at 171)

Examples of fraternal organizations include but are not limited to:

Knights of Columbus

Masonic Lodge

Moose Lodge

Sisterhoods and Brotherhoods

Tobacco

It is prohibited to smoke or hold lighted tobacco in any enclosed public space or enclosed workplace. It is also prohibited to smoke or hold lighted tobacco in the following outdoor areas: school property, hospital property, within 20 metres of children’s playgrounds and play areas, within 20 metres of certain sporting areas, in all areas where food or drink is served or sold or offered for consumption in the area, or the area that is part of or operated in conjunction with an area where food or drink is served or sold or offered (e.g. a picnic table, chairs, a patio… in conjunction with the area).

Event organizers shall:

Ensure “No Smoking” signs are posted at all entrances, exits, washrooms of enclosed public spaces or enclosed workplaces.

Ensure that “No Smoking” signs are posted in all areas where food or drink is served or sold or offered for consumption in the area, or the area that is part of or operated in conjunction with an area where food or drink is served or sold or offered (e.g. a picnic table, chairs, a patio… in conjunction with the area).

Ensure compliance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act by monitoring the areas where smoking or holding lighted tobacco are prohibited.

"No Smoking" signs are available at the EOHU.

For more information, please call the EOHU at 613-933-1375 or at 1 800 267-7120.

Examples of Potentially Hazardous Foods

A potentially hazardous food is any food that is capable of supporting the growth of pathogenic organisms or the production of toxins by these organisms. The following list contains examples of potentially hazardous foods: